M. Mick Gardner

M. Mick Gardner is a dedicated community ambassador, leader, Veteran advocate, and founder of UNITY4Change, LLC, an organization committed to empowering individuals, strengthening families, and building safer, more connected communities.

For more than 35 years, Mick has worked both inside and outside correctional settings, serving incarcerated and returning citizens with compassion, structure, and unwavering belief in their potential for transformation.

Beginning his career in grassroots outreach, Mick quickly recognized the unmet needs of justice-involved Veterans and incarcerated women and men, seeking a second chance. His work evolved into a lifelong mission: to create pathways for personal growth, emotional intelligence, and long-term community reintegration. Through Unfolding New Ideas Towards Yourself (U.N.I.T.Y.)his facilitated workshops, restorative circles, and one-on-one reentry guidance, Mick has supported thousands of individuals in developing healthy coping skills, accountability, and renewed purpose.

As the Founder and President of UNITY4Change, LLC, Mick leads initiatives focused on self-awareness, emotional regulation, and community building. He also serves as co-manager and fiscal/administrative agent for Communities-N-Concert, which provides technical assistance, grant writing, program development, and capacity-building support for emerging nonprofits. His leadership emphasizes innovation, partnership, especially through his collective approach with “Unfolding New Ideas Towards Yourself and Communities-n-Concert.”

Mick’s work is grounded in compassion, cultural humility, and the deep understanding that change is possible at any stage of life. His 37 years of Recovery is a testimony to his perseverance's. His program designs have uplifted in-custody Veterans, returning citizens, and community members seeking stability and hope. Known for his calm presence, high integrity, and steady mentorship, Mick has become a trusted figure across multiple counties, correctional institutions, and community organizations.

Driven by the belief that every person has value and potential, Mick continues to expand UNITY4Change’s impact through collaboration, education, and healing-centered engagement. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to service — transforming lives, strengthening communities, and helping individuals discover the strength to change.